The Holy Spirit as Dove

Date: Saturday, 2nd August, 2025

Text:  Matthew 3:16-17

Author: Pastor Adedeji Fadehan

Exhortation:

According to today’s text, when the Lord Jesus was baptized in the Jordan River, he went up straightway out of the water: and, the heavens were opened unto him, and John the Baptist saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove, and lighting upon him- Matthew 3:16

Why did the Holy Spirit appear as a dove and not as an owl, a hawk or a vulture?

Firstly, doves were considered clean animals in the Old Testament and were acceptable as sacrifices -Leviticus 5:7, 12:8, especially for those who couldn’t afford a lamb. This symbolizes humility, purity and blamelessness.

Secondly doves are non-aggressive, calm and peaceful birds. They are harmless and do not prey on others and are often seen as symbols of vulnerability. This reflects the idea of a heart that does no harm, echoing Jesus’ instruction to be “innocent as doves” -Matthew 10:16.

Doves by nature are not deceitful animals. They are simple creatures devoid of guile. The dove’s innocence signifies purity, harmlessness, gentleness, and moral integrity.

Prayer Nugget: Father, I ask for a pure and innocent like a dove in Jesus name

Bible in One Year: Isaiah 64-66

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